The Diavik diamond mine
The Diavik diamond mine is located on a 20 square kilometre island, informally called East Island, in Lac de Gras, approximately 300 kilometres by air northeast of Yellowknife, capital of Canada's Northwest Territories. The Arctic Circle is located 220 kilometres north of the mine.
Diamonds were first discovered in the area in the early 1990s and the site was deemed economic to mine in 1995. In early 2003, construction of the mine was completed, ahead of schedule and on budget. The mine, which currently has a footprint of approximately 10 square kilometres, is projected to produce approximately 110 million carats of diamonds over its mine life of 16 to 22 years. Diavik has been producing diamonds for four years and is currently an open pit operation. Underground mining options are currently being explored.
The establishment of the mine, and its ongoing operation, provides positive sustainable development examples from many angles - from amazing, award-winning engineering feats to establishing its infrastructure in a harsh and frozen climate, to development of considerable employment, training and capacity-building opportunities in northern communities with few economic options, to incorporation of indigenous knowledge and perspectives to ensure minimum impact of the mine on the region's pristine and sometimes fragile environment.
Constructing the mine
The design and construction of the Diavik mine in a harsh and forbidding environment of Lac de Gras is a success story on a grand scale.
Community / indigenous participation
Diavik's commitment to sustainable development in the Northwest Territories is evident in its strong, consultative and respectful relationship with the local community groups.
Environmental sensitivity
Diavik is committed to protecting the natural surroundings of its operations and to minimise its effects on the environment and on the traditional lifestyles of local communities.
Employment and training
Diavik has undertaken a range of training and employment initiatives which contributes to Canada's northern economy and to regional capacity building.
